Pakistan triumphed over Australia 2-1 in their
ODI cricket series, marking their first ODI series
win on Australian soil since 2002
Sports Desk
Perth: Pakistan defeated Australia 2-1 in their One-Day International (ODI) cricket series, marking their first ODI series win in Australia since 2002. In the final match at Perth, Pakistan’s bowlers delivered an impressive performance, dismissing Australia for 140 and chasing down the target with eight wickets in hand.
Pakistan’s Bowlers Shine in Series Decider
Pakistan’s pacers, led by Shaheen Afridi and Naseem Shah, dominated with swing and pace. They each took three wickets, dismantling Australia’s top order. The hosts, missing key players in preparation for an upcoming Test series against India, struggled to build momentum. Haris Rauf also impressed with 2-24, taking crucial wickets, including Glenn Maxwell, which left Australia at 79-5.
Rizwan and Babar Secure the Series
Chasing a modest target, Pakistan’s openers Saim Ayub (42) and Abdullah Shafique (37) set up an 84-run partnership. Though Lance Morris took both their wickets, Pakistan captain Mohammad Rizwan (30*) and Babar Azam (28*) guided the team to victory by the 27th over.
A Milestone Win and Series Comeback
This series win is Pakistan’s first in Australia in 22 years. Previously, they suffered losses, including a 5-0 defeat in 2009 and a 4-1 loss in 2016. The victory also boosts Pakistan’s confidence after a challenging start to 2024, as they prepare for the ICC Champions Trophy at home in 2025.
Australia Prepares for Test Series Against India
Australia rested key players to focus on their five-match Test series against India, starting on November 22. Despite changes, the squad still featured players like Glenn Maxwell, Marcus Stoinis, and Steve Smith, who contributed throughout the series.
Series Stats and Records
- 140 Runs: Australia’s total at Perth, their lowest home ODI total since 2013.
- First Instance: Australia lost consecutive ODIs by eight or more wickets, with Pakistan chasing down 164 runs in Adelaide with 141 balls to spare and the 141-run target in Perth with 139 balls remaining.
- 3 Times: Australia has lost by such a wide margin in ODIs, including Adelaide (141 balls) and Perth (139 balls).
Pakistan will now face Australia in a three-match T20 series starting at the Gabba in Brisbane on November 14, continuing in Sydney and Hobart.
